Frustration for Beech at Donington

Ashley Beech in action at Donington Park

Moorside racer Ashley Beech endured a frustrating opening round of the 2018 National Superstock 1000 Championship at Donington Park in Leicestershire.

For three days before the main event, Beech and his Crew Chief Michael Elliott tried suspension, gearing and many other configurations in order to get the maximum performance from his BMW S100RR race bike.

Heavy rain during practice prevented the riders posting quick lap times, but conditions improved for afternoon qualifying and Beech finished fifth quickest despite sliding off in the closing few minutes of the session.

Beech escaped injury and damage to his bike was minimal.

On the Sunday, there was a two-part race consisting of 18 laps each with a 10-minute gap in between to allow riders and teams to change tyres and refuel ready.

The 10-minute break is barely enough time to change tyres and refuel, let alone make adjustments to suspension and brakes.

Therefore this new format is a real challenge for both rider and crew.

There was a good start to the race, but Beech struggled right from the off with front suspension problems and he quickly dropped back and crossed the line in a disappointing 33^rd place.

Tyres changed and the bike refuelled, the crew only had time to make minor changes to the suspension before Beech returned to the track for part two of the race.

There was another quick start off the line, but again the suspension did not feel right and Beech was forced to retire after just four laps.

Heavy rain overnight left areas of the track flooded ahead of the Easter Monday feature race.

Beech made another great start, but the suspension gremlins struck again and he was forced to retire after just five laps.

Beech said: “It was a disappointing weekend, but we have two weeks to sort the bike ready for round two now.”

Beech will be back out on track on April 15 at Brands Hatch.

You can follow Beech and the team's progress at: www.jonesdorlingracing.com